An Escape to Catalonia – Barcelona The Colorful Lively City

The Catalan capital is rich with historic sites and classic tourist activities — browsing the centuries-old Boqueria market, studying the works of Picasso and Miró, posing with Gaudí’s frosted fairytale houses in Parc Güell, getting lost in the Gothic Quarter, keep this sunny destination a favorite touristic spot with its cosmopolitan feel and relaxed pace of life.

For sure, La Sagrada Familia

The most iconic unfinished landmark of Barcelona. Antoni Gaudí began this masterpiece in 1883 and a trip to Barcelona is not complete without a trip here. It’s a huge and stunning wonder of rainbow colors, beautiful tree-like concrete branches, and endless details. Book in advance and avoid the queues.

Bari Gotic

Discover the secrets and lose yourself in Barcelona’s charming Gothic Quarter. A medieval maze of squares, shops, and secret alleyways. Some of the many famous landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia, Plaça de l’Àngel, Plaça de Sant Felip Neri and the Church of Santa Maria del Pi. Among the old walls and passageways, this district was also home to the old city’s Jewish quarter. The historic community resided alongside the kings and rulers of Spain over the centuries, and there are still remnants of historic synagogues, ghetto areas and in-tact apartments inhabited to this very day.

Lunch at Boqueria Market

After exploring the Gothic Quarter, walk on over to one of the most famous markets in the world. It offers everything from poultry, eggs, meats, cheeses, and seafood to fruits, vegetables, and other preserves. Farmers alike have been coming here for centuries to sell their best products. Grab a delicious lunch and a fresh juice from one of the stalls at the market, and wander around slowly to see the colorful and diverse array of cuisine that Boqueria offers.

Gaudi’s Masterpieces

Starting in L’Eixample, head south on Passeig de Gràcia, past the sinuous facade of Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, and the spellbinding exterior of Casa Batlló. Continue down La Rambla to Palau Güell a dazzling mansion that reopened in 2011 after seven years of restoration. Inside, trace Gaudí’s genius from the subterranean horse stables and exquisite living quarters to the whimsical rooftop chimneys. In Parc Guell wander the colorful maze, sit on the stunning mosaic benches while looking over the city and the ocean. It is a colorful Kaleidoscope.

Montjuïc Castle

Wind down your trip with a visit to this historic castle served as a military fortress back in the 1600s. After you climb to the top, the exhilarating 360-degree angle views provide the perfect, last opportunity photo operation. Take a peaceful walk through the lunch gardens while listening to the extensive and interesting history that took place in the castle. The fountain show is amazing, harmonized with favorite Disney songs.

Tablao Cordbes Flamenco Show

Combining an excellent meal with a look at the traditional Flamenco dancing, this experience offers a great insight into Catalan culture and the passionate dancing which has been taking place here for over forty years.

Barceloneta Beach

Disconnect and dedicate a few hours in the afternoon to sit back and relax on the beautiful beaches. Here, you can swim, surf, or sail in the clear, turquoise waters. If the water is still too cold, spot a beach bed and catch up with a good book and enjoy a refreshing cocktail from the beach bars. I do prefer the ice-creams, the best lemon sorbet I have tasted.

We haven’t finished yet! Stroll Las Ramblas

The most famous street in the city is a pedestrianized, tree-lined boulevard that has many green areas, restaurants, and bars, with a range of market stalls and street traders. It’s lively and typically full of tourists!

Eat

Paella, Churros, Sangrias, Tapas, 23 Michelin star restaurants – Barcelona offers a gastronomic fiesta.

Sleep

Located on Passeig de Gràcia, the shopping mecca of Barcelona, Mandarin Oriental, is one of the city’s best-loved hotels. Enjoy stunning views over the rooftop gardens or the modernist landmark Casa Batlló. Unwind in the luxury Spa and enjoy halal food items in the menu, specially dedicated for Arabs visitors.

Hasta la Vista!

About the Author

Mahy Medhat

A storyteller with a wanderlust desire, who loves exploring the world with a penchant for culture and food. Mahy has been writing for numerous high-profile magazines and currently working on publishing her own book.